The LEX apartments, 2138 S Indiana Ave, South Loop

The LEX apartment complex consists of a 35-story, 297-unit tower connected to a 7-story, 36-unit loft building by a 6-story 367-space parking garage. The complex also has ground-level retail space which includes a recently opened South Loop Market.

The South Loop building was completed in 2010 and is currently the tallest building in Chicago south of 13th St. The LEX, originally named Lexington Park, was built as a condominium on the site of the former Lexington Hotel, once the headquarters of Al Capone. ST Residential acquired the project from its lender after the condo development failed, and converted it to rental apartments in 2012.

Limerick, Ireland-based Chieftain Group was the developer. The architecture firm for the project was VOA Associates and Kenny Construction was the general contractor.

The apartments

The LEX offers 12 different one-, and two-bedroom, two-bath floor plans. Oneof the 1-bedroom plans has a separate den. Two-bedroom units have either one or two baths and several plans include a den.

The apartments have open floor plans with 9- or 10-foot ceiling heights, floor-to-ceiling windows and generously-sized balconies. All of the apartments have in-unit washer / dryers. Living areas have hardwood floors and bedrooms are carpeted. Closet space is good.

A number of the floor plans have large baths with dual-bowl vanities and separate tubs and stall showers.

Most of the two-bedroom plans have the split-bedroom layout that’s preferred by roommates and people who office from home.

Views. The LEX has nearly-unobstructed views in every direction.

The building’s siting on an east – west axis and its floor-to-ceiling windows take maximum advantage of the views.

Amenities, services, policies

The LEX is a full-amenity building.

There’s a large landscaped deck above the garage with a pool, hot tub, grills, lounge seating, a fire pit and panoramic views. The deck has exposure to the sun throughout the day.

The LEX has a fitness room with up-to-date equipment adjacent to the pool deck.

There’s a business center and a party lounge with billiards, fireplace and TV. The LEX has a bike storage area and additional storage for residents. A furnished suite is available for overnight guests. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in common areas.

The LEX has on-site leasing and management staff and 24/7 door staff. The LEX is a smoke-free building.

The building is pet-friendly, subject to limits, and has a private dog run. The building has a 367-space on-site heated garage.

The nearest full-service grocery is a new Mariano’s, nearly a mile north and west of The LEX. South Loop Market, which recently opened in the building, is a family-run convenience store with a terrific selection of wines and craft beers.

There’s little to no retail development within a short walk of The LEX. The Shops at Roosevelt Collection and the large and growing cluster of big-box shops just west of the river along Roosevelt Rd are the most viable retail destinations.

Dining, nightlife.
Dining and nightlife options in the immediate area of The LEX are limited.

The LEX is adjacent to the Motor Row District, which is slated to become a music, entertainment and dining hub, taking advantage of its proximity to McCormick Place. Plans for the district have thus far resulted in little visible progress.

Ping Tom Memorial Park, eight-tenths of a mile north and west of The LEX, is a neighborhood jewel. The park has great vistas along the Chicago River, kayak rentals, play areas, ball fields, an indoor swimming pool and a great deal more to offer.

Transportation. Public transportation from The LEX’s location is good.